The Ministry of Agriculture, Ethiopia, in partnership with Metalmont an Italy-based international company has officially launched the first phase of the Integrated Post Harvest Infrastructure and Technology Supply Project. The initiative marks a major step toward addressing post-harvest losses in Ethiopiaโs agricultural sector.
Speaking at the launch, State Minister for Agriculture and Horticulture Development at the Ministry of Agriculture, Ethiopia, Mr. Desalegn Teshale, described post-harvest loss as a critical bottleneck in the sector. He emphasized that these losses significantly reduce farmersโ incomes, limit food availability, and put pressure on the national economy. he further noted that the ministry of agriculture, Ethiopia is intensifying its collaboration with stakeholders to address the challenge across the country.
Desalegn Teshale also expressed appreciation to the government of Italy for its support, highlighting its role in reducing post-harvest losses, strengthening agricultural value chains, and promoting food sovereignty in Ethiopia.
Michele Morana (PhD), head of Italian Development Cooperation, emphasized the global dimension of the problem, stating that nearly one-third of food production is lost or wasted worldwide, with serious economic consequences. he underlined that the project would play an important role in minimizing such losses while contributing to Ethiopiaโs irrigated wheat development program.
The project includes the construction of a grain storage warehouse equipped with modern systems for sorting, drying, and temperature control. It will also provide maintenance services for equipment, capacity-building training for professionals, and opportunities for knowledge exchange among experts.
Implementation will be carried out in selected locations across the Oromia and Amhara regions. During the launch event, participants were presented with detailed information about the projectโs objectives, operational scope, and anticipated challenges, followed by comprehensive discussions.
